Caprese Sandwich

Besides a classic tomato sandwich or BLT, there may be no better way to showcase the best summer tomatoes than a Caprese sandwich. Sweet, juicy tomatoes are sandwiched with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil between crusty baguette halves and then drizzled with rich olive oil and a tangy balsamic glaze.

This Caprese sandwich recipe is simple and quick to prepare—all you have to do is slice the bread, tomatoes and cheese, and then layer them into sandwiches. Using the freshest ingredients you can find guarantees a satisfying sandwich you won’t soon forget. With all the bright flavors of a Caprese salad, these sandwiches are an excellent menu addition for summer picnics, a no-cook dinner, or a fresh and flavorful packed lunch.

Caprese Sandwich Ingredients

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• French baguette: Chewy, hearty baguette is stable enough to hold sliced tomatoes and mozzarella without falling apart. Other good bread options are ciabatta rolls, crusty sourdough and focaccia.
• Tomatoes: Look for the best, ripest tomatoes you can find. We recommend using large heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes, which can be cut into thick, meaty slices for maximum juicy tomato flavor in every bite of your sandwich. A serrated blade is a must-have kitchen knife for cutting tomatoes; the jagged teeth slice through the soft flesh without squishing them.
• Fresh mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella is soft and creamy with a rich flavor that you can’t replicate with low-moisture or a block of mozzarella cheese. For thick, melt-in-your-mouth slices of mozzarella, purchase a log or ball of mozzarella packed in water. You may be able to find pre-sliced fresh mozzarella, which can save you the step of slicing the cheese.
• Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil enhances the flavor of the tomatoes and mozzarella. Since olive oil is strictly a flavor enhancer in this recipe, use extra virgin olive oil for the most complex flavor.
• Balsamic glaze: Balsamic glaze is simply balsamic vinegar that has been heated to evaporate the liquid and create a thick, syrup-like consistency. Its tangy flavor contrasts the sweetness of the tomatoes, but if it’s not your jam, you can leave it off.
• Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright, peppery flavor and aroma to Caprese recipes. Whether using basil from the grocery store or your herb garden, ensure you’re storing fresh basil correctly for fresh, vibrant leaves.

Directions

Step 1: Slice the baguette and toast, if desired

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Slice the baguette in half lengthwise. Cut each half into four equal portions to make four sandwiches. If you prefer toasted bread, place the baguette halves, cut side down, in a hot dry skillet until lightly toasted.

Editor’s Tip: If toasting the baguette, rub a peeled garlic clove against the cut sides of the bread to infuse it with extra flavor and aroma.

Step 2: Assemble the sandwiches

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Layer tomato slices and sliced mozzarella on each baguette bottom.

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Drizzle with olive oil and, if desired, balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

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Add the fresh basil leaves and top each sandwich with the other baguette half.

Editor’s Tip: Serve the sandwiches immediately, or tightly wrap each and refrigerate them until ready to eat.

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Caprese Sandwich Variations

• Switch up the bread: Use your favorite crusty loaf of bread to make a Caprese sandwich recipe. Try sliced sourdough or split ciabatta rolls instead of baguette—just skip any soft breads that won’t hold up to the juicy tomatoes and water-packed mozzarella.
• Make chicken Caprese sandwiches: Layer baked or grilled chicken breast with the tomato and mozzarella slices for extra protein and a more filling sandwich.
• Add a sauce: For extra flavor, spread pesto sauce, mayonnaise or garlic on the cut sides of the bread.
• Layer leafy greens: Add a handful of arugula or baby spinach to the sandwich filling for crunch.
• Cook ’em: For warm sandwiches with ooey-gooey mozzarella, place them in a panini press or cook them on a grill pan, similar to grilled cheese recipes, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts.

How to Store a Caprese Sandwich

A Caprese salad sandwich recipe has the best taste and texture when enjoyed fresh, especially if you toast the bread. If you have leftovers, tightly wrap the sandwiches with storage wrap, store them in the fridge and enjoy them within one to two days—cut tomatoes don’t hold up in the refrigerator much longer than that.

Can you make Caprese sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, but we recommend making these sandwiches no more than a few hours in advance to ensure they don’t become soggy. You could also slice the bread, mozzarella and tomatoes ahead of time, store the ingredients separately and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.

Caprese Sandwich Tips

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What is the best bread for a Caprese sandwich?

The best bread for this Caprese sandwich recipe is any crusty, hearty option, such as French baguette, ciabatta, focaccia or sourdough. These breads are sturdy enough to support the juicy tomatoes and fresh mozzarella without getting soggy or falling apart.

What tomatoes are best for Caprese?

The best tomato for a Caprese salad sandwich recipe is a slicing tomato, such as beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes. These tomato varieties are flavorful, have a meaty texture and are easy to cut into substantial slices for a satisfying sandwich bite. You can use Roma tomatoes in a pinch, but ensure they’re bright red and firm for the best flavor.

How do you prevent a soggy Caprese sandwich?

To prevent a soggy Caprese sandwich, choose sturdy bread and toast the sandwich halves to make the bread less susceptible to absorbing moisture from the wet ingredients. You can also blot moisture from the tomatoes with a paper towel and place the tomatoes between layers of mozzarella and basil to prevent the juices from seeping into the bread.

What can you serve with Caprese sandwiches?

A Caprese sandwich recipe pairs beautifully with a fresh, vibrant salad, such as quinoa tabbouleh, a light pasta salad or a cucumber salad. You could also serve the sandwiches with cups of minestrone for a soup-and-sandwich combo. Or, keep it simple and pair your sandwich with a handful of crunchy potato chips and a side of fruit.